Is Rotor Turning Necessary for Brake Maintenance?

For decades of DIY brake maintenance, I have never had the occasion to turn rotors or drums. It's a common practice among brake mechanics to exploit customers' ignorance and fear, leading to unnecessary charges. While technically feasible, rotor turning is not always a wise choice. This article aims to provide clear insights on the necessity and potential outcomes of turning brake rotors.

Understanding Rotor Turning

Brake mechanics often recommend or perform rotor turning when braking vibrations are present. This practice involves using sandpaper to even out the high and low spots on the brake rotor. However, it's essential to understand what actually happens during this process. Essentially, turning rotors is a form of minor resurfacing that can extend the life of older brake rotors by removing minor imperfections.

The Truth About Rotor Turning

Many brake mechanics will suggest rotor turning as a solution to brake vibrations. In reality, this is often more of a cosmetic approach than a functional one. When the high and low spots on the rotor are evened out, the rotor becomes smoother. However, over time, these high and low spots will reappear due to the different heating and wear patterns that occur while braking. This means that the vibrations may return, as the crystalline structure of the rotor can still be affected by wear.

A Closer Look at Rotor Wear and Brake Performance

If you have recently replaced brake pads and are experiencing vibrations, rotor turning might seem like a good solution. However, even if the issue is resolved temporarily, the vibrations are likely to reappear. This is because the high spots that were flattened will gradually return, leading to uneven wear and potential vibrations once again.

For owners of newer cars, it is practically impossible to turn rotors effectively due to the thinness of the rotors. Most newer cars have rotors that are too thin to allow for proper turning without significantly reducing their overall thickness. This is a design choice made to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency, but it limits the options for brake maintenance.

When Is Rotor Turning Actually Necessary?

While rotor turning is not always necessary, it can be beneficial in certain situations. If you want even wear on your new brake pads, or if you're dealing with specific performance issues, rotor turning can improve the overall braking experience. However, if it's simply a case of addressing brake vibrations, it's likely to be a temporary solution that will need to be addressed again down the line.

Alternative Solutions to Consider

Instead of rotor turning, which can be a costly and potentially ineffective maintenance procedure, consider these alternative solutions:

Replace Brake Pads: If the vibrations are caused by worn brake pads, replacing them with new ones can often resolve the issue. Diagnose and Address the Root Cause: Sometimes, the vibrations are due to more complex issues such as caliper issues or misaligned components. Diagnosing and addressing the root cause can provide a more lasting solution. Consult a Professional: If the issue persists, it's best to consult a professional mechanic who can provide a thorough diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate course of action.

In conclusion, while rotor turning can be an option for brake maintenance, it's not always the best choice. It's essential to understand the potential limitations and the fact that the issue may return. For most cases, replacing brake pads or addressing the root cause of the problem can provide a more satisfactory and lasting solution. The key is to ensure that any maintenance work is done efficiently, effectively, and with the customer's interests in mind.